The Casation Chamber confirmed the dismissal of Javier Milei in the defamation case opened by Jorge Fontevecchia
The Federal Chamber of Criminal Cassation in Argentina confirmed the dismissal of President Javier Milei in a defamation case brought by journalist Jorge Fontevecchia.
The Federal Chamber of Criminal Cassation decided to uphold the dismissal of President Javier Milei regarding a defamation case initiated by Jorge Fontevecchia, the director of Grupo Perfil. The court's ruling was based on the consensus of judges Carlos Mahiques, Mariano Borinsky, and Juan Carlos Gemignani, indicating that there was insufficient evidence for the case to proceed. The allegations involved were centered on public comments made by Milei, which Fontevecchia claimed were defamatory.
The contentious remarks took place over several episodes, particularly noting a specific incident from February 27, 2023, during a broadcast on La Nación+ hosted by journalist Viviana Canosa. In this instance, Milei targeted Fontevecchia, labeling him a "serial bankrupt" and criticizing his business practices, which he claimed aligned with the traditional political class that benefits from government advertising. This public diatribe was part of a broader context where Milei’s rhetoric often involves aggressive critiques of his opponents, reflecting a combative style that has characterized his presidency.
The implications of this ruling extend beyond the individual case, highlighting the tensions between political figures and media personalities in Argentina, particularly as Milei's presidency is marked by polarizing rhetoric and contentious relationships with the press. By reaffirming the dismissal, the court has also indicated a protective stance towards political discourse, allowing leaders to express opinions without being restrained by potential defamation claims, although this may also encourage further contentious exchanges in the public sphere.